Former New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith was killed Saturday night in New Orleans in an apparent road rage incident.
Smith, 34, was rear-ended by a person in a Hummer, and after both the driver of the Hummer and Smith got out of their cars and exchanged words, the Hummer driver shot Smith and his wife, police told FOX 8 in New Orleans. His wife was taken to a hospital. Police also said both the shooter and the weapon are in custody.
Smith, who starred at Ohio State, was a first-round draft pick by the Saints in 2004. He played all nine seasons of his pro career in New Orleans and was part of the team’s Super Bowl win over Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts in 2009. Smith attended New England Patriots training camp in 2014 but never played in a game for them.
The NFL community shared its thoughts and prayers Sunday morning.
So sad to hear about Will Smith this AM As people we have to do better man…Prayers to his family as they go through this tough time 🙏🏿
— Devin&Jason McCourty (@McCourtyTwins) April 10, 2016
Woke up an Can't make sense of this senseless killing of Will Smith, Lord please watch over the Smith family and give them strength.
— Cam Jordan (@camjordan94) April 10, 2016
Cant believe tragic loss of Will Smith. Such a great person even knowing him briefly. So sad to c a great man lost from senseless violence
— Nate Ebner (@NateEbner) April 10, 2016
Were praying for the Smith family. I'm hurt to hear about this news. This man had a beautiful family. His life taken away for nothing 😔
— Jermon Bushrod (@j_bushrod7475) April 10, 2016
Awful news smh. #RIPWILLSMITH former buckeye Great. One of the coolest and smoothest dudes I've ever met.
— Beanie Wells (@BeanieWells26) April 10, 2016
Thumbnail photo via Derick E. Hingle/USA TODAY Sports Images